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Learn About the Game Tetris

In Tetris, blocks made of four squares drop from the top. The game uses seven shapes that behave in distinct ways. Players rotate and place each piece to form solid rows. Completed rows vanish and free space for new moves. The speed rises over time and mistakes create gaps that waste space. A clean stack leaves room for the long piece. Clear four lines at once to score a Tetris.

Alexey Pajitnov created Tetris in 1984 in Moscow. Simple rules helped the puzzle spread around the world. Several companies fought over rights during the early years. New editions kept appearing in many countries. A Russian folk tune inspired the familiar main theme. Players learned the basics in minutes and worked on better scores for a long time.

Strong play depends on planning. Many versions show the next pieces and let players hold a block for later use. Skilled players build a slim well on one side and save the long piece for a four-line clear. Clean stacks avoid hidden gaps and keep options open. Fast rounds demand quick rotation and careful placement. Competitive modes send rows with one hole after big clears. That pressure forces constant adjustments.